This review may contain spoilers
Overall I liked it, the premise is new for a romcom so it was refreshing
I liked how it started, it depicted a real issue within the dating world and how women are tired to navigate through all these shitty dates and men but halfway through this main plot got sort of pushed to the background and was not given like a “closure” the drama turned to a office romance plot that touched for a bit the part of the virtual dating but left it at that. I thought that Ji Yeon was going to take over this part of the plot but she just had a few minutes in the last episode regarding this which didn’t really have a true conclusion, so wished they hadn’t thrown out the main plot halfway through as it was the most interesting part of the show.I think a lot of things were left unexplored, would’ve like to see the reaction of the models they used to create these virtual bfs and how it affected their lives irl. Also, the long term effect of this virtual dating world on the lives of women and society, and how this was handled in terms of ethics as well. But guess was way easier to just turn it into an office romcom.
Also, wished Mi Rae and Kyeong Nam should’ve talked more sincerely about how weird it was that she “dated” him in the virtual game, he should’ve been more freaked out about it, like how were they able to build him so exact in this game? And it was so weird how okay it was for her to date a man that looked exactly like her coworker in this game while he was completely unaware, that was really odd.
In conclusion, it’s good just felt like at the start there were a lot of filler scenes and then fell short to explore all the plot lines they created, they could’ve done so much more with this premise. Wouldn’t rewatch it but I think it’s worth the watch!
(And wanted to note that people exaggerated so much on how “bad” Jisoo’s acting was, I actually think she did really well and people just hate to hate atp)
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Brilliant cameos!
This is a light and sweet story. I felt that the actors all did a good job, except for Ji Soo in her crying scene toward the end. Granted, it might be played for laughs.The idea of escaping reality for a man that loves you regardless (one of the characters said the "HAVE TO" love you) was interesting. The alternate reality scenes were beautifully filmed.
Ji Soo's character was getting on my nerves, being unable to start a real relationship, because she was afraid for the end of it. Has she not heard "It's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?"
My favorite episode was 7, when we got to hear the ML's thoughts and how he came to like her.
Seo In Guk never disappoints. Him playing two parts was bonus for me.
Sure, there were things that made absolutely no sense - how was the fake boyfriend able to send mail and call?
But if you want a break from heavier dramas, this is a great palate cleanser.
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A Surprisingly Fun Ride Despite the Hype-Busters
I went into Boyfriend on Demand with zero expectations—honestly, the negative reviews had me braced for a flop. But what can I say? I'm weak for handsome men (Seo In Guk, Chef's kiss), and this light, breezy K-drama hooked me right away. It's the perfect guilty-pleasure watch: fluffy rom-com vibes with just enough heart to keep you smiling through the episodes.It's packed with those classic K-drama tropes—awkward meet-cutes, over-the-top misunderstandings, and swoon-worthy chemistry—but it shines in quieter moments. What elevated it for me were the honest discussions on relationship struggles, like how people change (or don't) over time, the fear of losing yourself in love, and navigating modern dating chaos. These bits felt surprisingly real amid the silliness, sparking some "aha" moments without getting preachy.
Acting-wise, the leads nail the charm offensive, and the supporting cast delivers comic gold. Visually, it's all glossy Seoul aesthetics and cute outfits—pure escapism.
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literally surpassed my wildest dreams ?
This was just so much fun to watch!I started it to watch in-between another show which was high on my watch list, but in the end I ran to this first!
I think above all they cast this perfectly💪🏻I mean I seriously do not believe Seo Kang Jun is real anyway, so playing an AI was perfect and their chemistry was next level! But her final choice, yeah he was perfect, it was the bottle tops on lined up bottles that did it for me 💯 and the complete green flag of a man and his AI to spice it up was a bonus!
It started out just cringingly wonderful, with each of these lovely men and honestly I was happy there, but her story was really nicely done, they pitched that perfectly, it was clean, simple and you could relate to this deeper and unexpected layer.
The comedy was on point and i howled at her new found athletic prowess ⛸️🥷
The office family, her friend, the AI sidekicks all added to the fun of this drama, we were spoilt as viewers.
I was left wanting more but at the same time I’m glad they didn’t distract from what for me was a simple, original piece of Romcom heaven.
I hoped it would be good, it surpassed my wildest dreams…literally 🤭
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Lots of potential, Bad Execution
This isn't bad bad drama or anything. It is actually the most easygoing k-drama I have ever watched. It almost felt a little bit TOO easygoing I'm not gonna lie (but I think that's just because I'm used to watching dramas that piss me off 24/7 lolll). The pacing of this drama is really weird. For example, when the ML confesses it was really awful timing and felt very unauthentic because he had shown no direct interest in her previously. Also, I feel like they could have done more with the plot. The potential was there and the whole idea of virtual dating is really new and refreshing to see in a k-drama. but they didn't have much comparison between the two. It just felt like the FL did one thing and then the other instead of going back and forth between the two, which would have added more emotional and psychological depth (something the drama lacks). The first 4 or so episodes don't add any depth between the leads at all. It just showed the FL going from virtual bf to virtual bf and didn't show the FL and ML together as much as it should/could have. I wish there more more emotional conflicts then just "I like you but i'm scared to get with you because I don't want you to change and then we break up." It was mentioned a lot in the show and began to feel repetitive because that was essentially the main conflict within the whole show. I feel like then could've added more of a comparison between virtual dating and dating IRL. They did, but it should've been more because as I said earlier it would've added more depth. I only kept watching just to see how it was going to end, not because I was seriously engaged like how I am with other dramas. Besides, I knew that they were going to end up together in the end anyways. Also.,I feel like the first 2 episodes were good, but then around episode 4, it started to just make me think "okay so it's been 4 episodes and no romantic tension between the leads at all." Another thing, I feel like they could have made them ACTUAL enemies rather then him just pissing her off because he, unbeknownst to her (and the audience) likes her and she just gets easily irritated (low-key real tho). The casting is pretty good too. Although, I'm not gonna lie, the only reason I watched it is to see Lee Soo-Hyuk lolll, And at first, I just thought it was going to be a dump of a lot of famous people and not even be that good and sadly, I was kinda right. I'm not saying it's TERRIBLE, but it's definitely not the BEST drama I have ever watched. Definitely just something you watch to pass time.Was this review helpful to you?
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Boyfriend on Demand: 3/09/2026 ~ 3/11/2026
I think the concept of this show is really unique and I love the way it was done. Especially cause recently dramas have felt like carbon copies of each other. Anyways the whole virtual reality was cute and honestly really cool to see a character who isn’t supposed to care about love fall victim to it. I also like how even though she knew it was a problem she still kept going back. Now for the lil plot point if the ML, that’s was amazing and usually I would find it corny but it was perfect. I’m also just a sucker for down bad MLs, like yes please that’s all I want in life. The romance was also really good and it was really fun and cute to see even though it too forever to take place between the actual main characters. However given the context of this show I think it is what allowed it to work and not feel like it was dragging out as much as it did.Was this review helpful to you?
And I have to say it… the virtual boyfriend app is really cool . The design, the interface, and the way this digital world is portrayed are quite well done. On top of that, the settings are absolutely beautiful, with a carefully crafted aesthetic that makes every scene visually pleasing.
The story also touches on interesting themes like loneliness and the idealization of love, although it doesn’t go too deep into them. That said, the drama is full of clichés from beginning to end, predictable situations and twists you can see coming… but somehow, they don’t feel too annoying if you go in expecting something light.
The performances do their job well, and the chemistry between the leads works nicely. But to be completely honest… I mainly watched this drama because of my beloved Seo In-guk, and I don’t regret it . His presence always adds something special and makes the experience even more enjoyable.
As for the pacing, it’s quite smooth and perfect for unwinding. It’s not a life-changing drama, but it’s definitely one that keeps you company and gives you some sweet moments.
Overall, Boyfriend on Demand is a light, visually appealing K-drama full of clichés, ideal for relaxing… especially if, like me, you have a soft spot for Seo In-guk .
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We all watch it because of the eye candies/ favorite actor/actress
I'm 100% sure we watched it because these actors/actresses that were in this drama: Seo In Guk , Gong Min Jung , Jo Han Chul , Ko Kyu Pil , Yoo Hyun Woo, Lee Soo Hyuk , Yoo In Na , Lee Jae Wook , Kim Young Dae , and Yang Hong Seok. I did not like any of the AI short mini-stories. It was very cringy. I skipped the majority of the show just to see the actor/actress I mentioned before. I swear I didn't think I would hit a new low just to see these actors and actresses. I guess this is like saying to embrace AI but keep in touch with your humanity. look idk i'm not a philosopher. If there is anything to say is that AI boyfriend and girlfriend is a thing now. I don't care if you date AI, it's your thing, and it's none of my business if people have a preference to date AI, it's their choice. I honestly don't know if this drama had a plot because I didn't feel it, but i did see the message btw this is just my assumption i can be wrong, but I'm just telling you my opinion. This drama felt like a support on using AI, because of the character who did AI plagiarism just had a slap on the arm.Was this review helpful to you?
It does what it’s supposed to
A drama that falls in the category of “guilty pleasure” for me. The story is kinda predictable, but it’s made well enough to do what it’s supposed to: giving you some butterflies and relieve stress. There’s not much commentary about the implications of such invasive virtual experiences, but it’s not the drama for it. Jisoo, as much as she achieved such leading roles due to her status, she’s not bad. Her acting is a bit stiff at times, a bit scholastic, but she’s not terrible at all. She deserved the main lead role? I’m sure there were more navigated actresses that deserved it. Was she bad? Not at all, as I said she’s still a rookie and it shows, but she’s not as terrible as some say. I think she embodied the character pretty well, she was cute and easy to cheer for.The series is obviously carried by the amount of budget put into it with aesthetically pleasing scenes, a carousel of super famous male actors, but it’s genuine in being what it is. It doesn’t want to be deep or serious, it reminds me of an upgraded version of Love Alarm. It’s cheesy but in a gratifying way. It moves a couple of strings that many can relate to like leading a stressful life and the need to feel something… Not groundbreaking but a pleasing watch overall.
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Yall saying this is not.... you're wrong.
Listen, I will always respect erroneous opinions. But this drama brought me (and thousands of X users) back to the binge-watching K-drama life!For the first time in years, I finished a drama in less than three days. I don't know what y’all watched, or why you're saying the acting was bad or that there was no chemistry, because OMG my soul left my body several times watching this. I laughed out loud, I felt nervous, and I even felt pretty myself—if that makes any sense. Let me tell you, I was the first to feel disappointed when I found out what this drama was about. What do you mean AI-created boys you date in a virtual game?
I also wasn't sure about the Seo In‑guk and Jisoo pairing, but I found myself hyping them up as if my life depended on it.
I'm 27 years old—why am I crying over this beautiful tall man who yearns every time he breathes?
Seo In‑guk redefines longing—the waiting, the hope. I've never felt more desperate for a character to be loved. Jisoo's acting felt so natural that some of y’all are calling her weird and plain. Girl can act, and she has this drama to prove it. Their chemistry was overwhelming. At times I literally paused the show just to thank myself for giving this a chance.
After I finished Boyfriend on Demand, I remembered why it's so hard for me to find a boyfriend in real life: the standards, baby.
-Rom-coms are back.
-Longing, yearning, one-sided beef.
-He fell first. He fell harder.
-Not your typical boring clichés.
And more objectively speaking, Boyfriend on Demand is a fantasy rom-com. Don’t come here expecting an incredible storyline—there’s nothing life-changing about it. It’s simply an enjoyable drama: funny, romantic, and full of cameos that, honestly, are the least important part.
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Dating Game
The concept of an extremely advanced holodeck-esque dating simulation subscription game in the modern capitalistic society is the hook of the series as well as the most interesting part though this being a light rom-com rather than Black Mirror means the surrounding ethical implications are on the periphery, maybe even paid lip service to, but sadly not explored. The female lead Mi Rae knows that the pricing tiers are exploitative, but rationalizes herself into subscribing anyways.Like anything, you can do so with your free will and it won't be unhealthy if you can set boundaries for yourself, but with all the very real psychosis triggered in real life by relying on an disembodied chatbot, an utterly realistic one that's virtually undistinguishable from real life is the slipperiest of slopes. The virtual boyfriend Eun Ho was the most realistic of the bunch, rebuffing the player enough as a simulacrum of sentience and they way he's emotionally upset when the player wants to leave or end subscription is so insidious. The realistic food which includes taste and texture sounds amazing, but I could see how it may be misused as a replacement for actually eating. There's a lot of pit falls and perhaps if this game really did exist in the real world, the solution it would use would be similar to the ones printed on cigarettes with warnings about potential triggers for mental health issues. It was fun how Mi Rae's friend Ji Yeon speed runs the game, a spin off showing exactly how she solves all 901 boyfriends would be amazing.
Gyeong Nam is neurodivergent coded and Seo In Guk plays the subtle personality differences between Gyeong Nam and his virtual counterpart Yeong Il very well, easily differentiating them beyond hair color, glasses, and fashion. He and Jisoo as Gyeong Nam and Mi Rae doesn't have fiery chemistry, but the writing is understandable enough as to why the characters would be drawn to each other. Jisoo's acting is serviceable, she just hasn't found that break through to the next level yet. It's not as noticeable a lot of the times because Gyeong Nam has a low key personality, but in the scenes when those emotions come through, their acting levels are pointedly night and day. The author Yun Song fully prefers to keep her month to month subscription game boyfriend which the show presents as a happy ending for her without comment or caveats. Mi Rae lets go of her customized virtual boyfriend to be with her real life dream man. It's kind of weird the show wants it both ways instead of having a strong stance even as a romcom. They seem afraid to be alienating the future virtual AI boyfriend having audience.
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Great Premise, Terrible Execution
Boyfriend on Demand has a great premise but it fails to develop a comprehensive plot that explores all the themes and plot points it introduces. The drama does not know if it wishes to be an exploration of the effect of advancements in AI technology on romance or simply a romcom drama with the Boyfriend on Demand as a tool to further the plot.It spends far too much time showing the dates Jisoo’s character, Seo Mirae, has with her virtual boyfriends. The supposed male lead, Seo In-guk’s character is given very little screen time while the drama spends so much time either showing or building up Seo Kang-jun’s character. Although most of her dates with these AI boyfriends serve a purpose in her character development, the story lingers too long on these dates, making it a rather monotonous and dull watch at times.
All in all, the relationship between the ML and FL is mostly limited to montages of happy moments together, and the final conflict. She has more conversations with her virtual reality boyfriends than with the ML, and their relationship is not explored at all.
The drama has many interesting side characters but it rarely gives enough focus to them. The webtoon writer's role played by Gong Min Jung and the role of Mirae's friend played by Lee Ji Yeon both had intriguing character developments but they were mostly resolved off screen, and what we got were mere glimpses of their conflicts. Developments in both these characters could have added to the conversation on the Virtual Reality Dating concept but the drama just hops over them as if it is not interested in discussing the consequences of AI Dating platforms although it spent the first half of the show building up on the same.
The highlight of the drama were the cameos by many heartthrobs of kdrama world, which were hilarious at times and entertaining overall.
Boyfriend on Demand had the potential to be a drama that explores romance in a time where virtual reality has taken over the real world, but it fails to find the balance between real life romance and virtual life romance to create an impactful drama.
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